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The Riley Black Project

Riley Black

Where we talk about lasers, life and all the ish in between!

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21 episodes
Avg 1 hr 5 min
English

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S1 · E272
September 7 · 1 hr 13 min
The Cutting Board That Started a Business
Send us Fan Mail What happens when a handwritten recipe, a small-town move, and one laser turn into a full engraving business? In this episode of **The Riley Black Project**, John and Crystal sit down with **Michael and Flora from Havet Engraved** to talk about their journey from Port St. Lucie, Florida to Pilot Mountain, North Carolina, and how they went from one machine in a basement to a growing engraving business with lasers, UV printing, sandblasting, metal marking, apparel, and more. Michael and Flora share how a sentimental engraved cutting board sparked the idea for their business, why personalized gifts mean so much, and how one small-town customer ordering cutting boards helped them start building real momentum. They also talk about originally planning to open a UPS Store, realizing that franchise life was not the right fit, and choosing to go all in on their own engraving business instead. We get into the real stuff too: scary business pivots, working with your spouse, educating customers on what laser engraving, UV printing, and sandblasting can actually do, learning new machines, investing before you feel ready, and why networking can completely change the trajectory of a small business. Whether you’re a laser owner, UV printer, sandcarver, maker, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur trying to figure out your next move, this episode is packed with real-world lessons on growth, risk, community, and building a business around meaningful work. 🎙️ **The Riley Black Project** Lasers, life, business, content creation, and all the ish in between. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E271
August 31 · 1 hr 1 min
Conference Prep, Content Tips & Maker Chaos
Send us Fan Mail Next Level is almost here, and we are officially in conference prep mode. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal go live in the Riley Black Project Community to talk all things Next Level Maker Conference, booth prep, content creation, networking, health updates, and how we’re trying to stay consistent even when life keeps getting chaotic. We talk about what we’re bringing to Next Level, including Keychain Thingies, UV DTF stickers, portable fans, jewelry samples, and a shared booth setup with Katy from Monarch Pine. Crystal also shares why this year is a little different, how she’s scaling back to protect her sanity, and why we’re choosing a more fun meetup/game night instead of a formal live podcast recording. We also get into why conferences like Next Level are such a huge opportunity for makers, not just for classes and vendors, but for content, networking, collaborations, business ideas, and real friendships that are hard to build online. If you’re attending a maker conference, trade show, laser meetup, or creative business event, this episode is packed with real advice on how to get more out of it. Whether you’re heading to Next Level, planning for another maker conference, attending a laser event, or trying to turn in-person events into real business opportunities, this episode is your reminder to show up, talk to people, make content, and take care of yourself along the way. 🎙️ The Riley Black Project Lasers, life, business, content creation, and all the ish in between. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E270
August 24 · 1 hr 26 min
The Full Wrap Tumbler Queen Finally Joined Us
Send us Fan Mail We’re finally back! After a short break, The Riley Black Project returns with a guest who has been dodging us for years: Kristen Thompson of Kristen Thompson Designs. Kristen joins John and Crystal to talk about her journey from corporate work at Lowe’s, to Cricut crafts, Etsy digital designs, sublimation tumblers, laser engraving, full wrap tumbler designs, Photoshop mockups, and building a creative business around the products and designs she actually loves making. We get into the real maker-business stuff too: trying new things, getting over the fear of being on camera, learning full wrap tumblers, selling digital laser files, testing designs, using mockups, making finished products, and why entrepreneurship feels amazing and exhausting at the same time. Kristen also shares how she built her Etsy design shop, why she still loves the analytical side of business, and how selling designs to other makers doesn’t take away from her finished product business. It can actually help more people bring beautiful cups to life in their own way. Whether you’re a laser owner, tumbler maker, Etsy seller, digital designer, creative entrepreneur, or maker trying to figure out what direction to go next, this episode is packed with laughs, business lessons, and real-world maker experience. FB: The KTD Collection - Lasered By KTD IG: @kthompdesigns TikTok: @LaseredByKTD Etsy: kthomplaserdesigns.etsy.com Website: KristenThompsonDesigns.com YouTube: @ShesTheReasonIHaveALaser Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E269
August 3 · 48 min
Crystal Bought a New Laser… Again
Send us Fan Mail Crystal bought a new laser… so naturally, we had to talk about it. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down for a life update episode packed with maker business pivots, laser talk, content creation lessons, ADHD updates, travel plans, and a major Riley Black Studios website refresh. Crystal shares her first impressions of the xTool F2, why she chose it for jewelry and small personalized gifts, and how the camera alignment has already made engraving tiny pieces easier. We also talk about using laser engraving to create meaningful keepsakes, from wedding coasters and cancer ribbon keychains to handwriting gifts that don’t have to wait until someone is gone. We also dive into the content side of business, including how posting more consistently has started paying off, why some videos take off while others flop, and why even content creators struggle to create content for themselves. In this episode we talk about: • Crystal’s new xTool F2 • Why she’s leaning into laser engraved jewelry • Why Next Level is shaping up to be a huge event • The new Riley Black Studios website rollout • Niching down and building a business around what people actually need Whether you’re a laser owner, maker, small business owner, creative entrepreneur, or someone trying to balance life, business, family, and content creation, this episode is full of honest updates and real-world lessons. 🎙️ The Riley Black Project Lasers, life, business, content creation, and all the ish in between. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E268
July 27 · 1 hr 19 min
The Rematch Nobody Asked For But Everyone Needed
Send us Fan Mail The rivalry is BACK. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal welcome back David and Blake for David vs. Blake: Round 2. What started as a friendly feud in the Michigan maker community has turned into one of the funniest ongoing rivalries in the laser world. This year, the battle is headed back to Next Level, where votes, bragging rights, giveaways, and embarrassing ads are all on the line. We talk about: • The return of David vs. Blake • How the rivalry started in the Michigan laser community • Why the loser has to star in an ad for the winner • Great Lakes Laser Supply updates • UV printing hat clips, canvas prints, magnets, and golf products • Refine Color UV printer talk • Creative Cut Supplies updates • Custom magnets, ornaments, displays, and product packaging • CO2 Galvo lasers and why they are insanely fast • Scaling production without losing your mind • Why product displays and merchandising matter • Shopify struggles, squirrel brain, and business focus • The reality of having too many good ideas as a maker If you’re a laser owner, UV printer, maker, small business owner, or someone who enjoys a good friendly feud, this episode is packed with laughs, strategy, and practical business talk. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E267
July 13 · 1 hr 14 min
Epoxy Cups to DTF, UV DTF & Monkeys
Send us Fan Mail What do epoxy cups, DTF transfers, UV DTF, lasers, entrepreneurship, and pet monkeys all have in common? Apparently… 143 MTD. 😂 In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Ashley and Bethany from 143 MTD for one of the most unexpected and entertaining conversations we’ve had yet. Ashley shares how her business started as a side gig making epoxy cups, evolved into vinyl, sublimation, DTF transfers, UV DTF, laser engraving, embroidery, slick crewnecks, and eventually grew into a full creative business. We also talk about leaving traditional work, building a business around family, and what it’s like raising kids and grandkids around entrepreneurship. And then… the monkeys show up. Yes. Actual monkeys. We talk about: • How 143 MTD got its name • Going from epoxy cups to sublimation, DTF, UV DTF, and lasers • Growing from a backyard setup into a full creative business • Leaving law enforcement and call center work behind • Building a business that supports family and flexibility • Working with your daughter in the business • Why DTF and UV DTF are such powerful tools for makers • How UV DTF can help laser owners offer full-color products without buying a UV printer • The reality of owning monkeys If you’re a maker, laser owner, crafter, DTF seller, small business owner, or just someone who enjoys wildly unpredictable conversations, this episode is for you. 🎙️ The Riley Black Project Lasers, life, business, content creation, and all the ish in between. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E266
July 6 · 1 hr 7 min
Stop Selling Products That Stress You Out
Send us Fan Mail Sometimes business growth looks less like a huge breakthrough… …and more like admitting, “I don’t want to keep doing it this way.” In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down for a no-guest, real-life update episode about pivoting, product ideas, custom order stress, laser business decisions, and figuring out what actually feels sustainable. Crystal talks through her possible shift into custom laser engraved jewelry using Monarch Pine jewelry blanks, why she’s considering moving away from certain custom products, and how small personalized items may be a better fit for her creativity, workflow, and local market. We dive into: • Why custom orders can be more stressful than they look • The hidden time behind “simple” personalized products • Pivoting from random custom work to a more focused product line • Laser engraved jewelry and small gift ideas • Monarch Pine blanks, findings, and jewelry possibilities • Considering the xTool F2 for live engraving and small batch production • Why ease of use matters when choosing your laser tools • The difference between hobby gear, production tools, and what actually fits your business • Pricing custom work, design fees, rush fees, and customer communication • ADHD, creative burnout, and overthinking product ideas • UV printing struggles, acrylic blocks, photo gifts, and precision problems • Why sometimes the best business move is simplifying If you’re a maker, laser owner, crafter, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur trying to figure out your next product line, this episode will feel painfully familiar. This is the messy middle of business. And honestly? That’s where the good stuff usually starts. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E265
June 29 · 58 min
Behind GTS Awards: Education, Sandblasting & Industry Growth
Send us Fan Mail Braden from GS2 Awards is back on The Riley Black Project! In this episode, we dive into the world of custom awards, sandblasting, UV printing, laser engraving, and the growing demand for premium personalized products. Braden shares how a simple shift into awards helped transform his business, why sandblasting remains one of the most powerful tools in the industry, and how the new Beyond the Beam Learning Center is helping makers, engravers, and business owners level up their skills. We also discuss pricing strategies, custom award design, production workflows, trade shows, hands-on education, and why creating unique products can separate your business from the competition. Whether you're running a laser engraving business, selling personalized products, exploring UV printing, or looking for new ways to increase profits, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world experience. Topics Covered: • Custom awards and trophy design • Sandblasting for laser businesses • UV printing opportunities • TROTEC Laser equipment • Ikonics Imaging sandblasting systems • Award business profitability • Glass engraving techniques • Beyond the Beam Learning Center • Pricing custom products • Growing a creative manufacturing business Connect with Braden & GS2 Awards: www.gs2awards.com Join the Riley Black Project Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rileyblackproject Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E264
June 16 · 1 hr 14 min
This Episode Got Spicy FAST: Masks, Lasers & Legal Drama
Send us Fan Mail She showed up wearing a mask... And somehow things got MORE chaotic from there. 😂 In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we're joined by none other than Emily That Mom with a Laser for a conversation that starts with Laser Maker Con 2025 and quickly turns into entrepreneurship, burnout, creativity, health, ADHD, community, and one of the wildest stories we've heard in the maker space. We dive into: 🔥 Everything you need to know about Laser Maker Con 2025 🔥 The incredible speakers, classes, giveaways, and new features coming this year 🔥 Why saying "yes" to everything can hurt your business and your health 🔥 Entrepreneurship, stress, burnout, and learning to slow down 🔥 ADHD, procrastination, and why some creators work best under pressure 🔥 Building a successful maker business without sacrificing yourself 🔥 The evolution of the laser community over the last five years 🔥 Hat engraving, Etsy growth, Pinterest marketing, and creative business strategies 🔥 Massive Laser Maker Con giveaways including lasers and a UV printer 🔥 The shocking story behind "That Mom With A Laser" and a years-long legal battle over her brand Whether you're a laser owner, maker, content creator, or small business owner, this episode is packed with laughs, lessons, and a little bit of tea. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E263
June 8 · 46 min
How Makers Can Create Better Content
Send us Fan Mail Want better content without spending hours editing, stressing over algorithms, or trying to go viral? In this special compilation episode of The Riley Black Project, we're bringing together two incredible conversations from Facebook Live appearances with Emily (That Mom With A Laser) and Will (Crazy Laser Dad). The focus? Content creation that actually works for makers and small business owners. As part of the launch of the new Content Creation Playbook Mini Course, we dive into the biggest mistakes makers make with content, why consistency beats perfection, and how to create videos that attract customers instead of just views. In this episode we discuss: ✅ Why most makers overcomplicate content creation ✅ The biggest content mistakes hurting business growth ✅ How to create content even when you're busy ✅ Why authenticity beats polished production ✅ Building trust through video content Whether you're a laser owner, maker, crafter, UV printer, woodworker, or small business owner, this episode is packed with practical advice you can start using immediately. The Riley Black Project is where makers, creators, and entrepreneurs come together to talk business, creativity, content, and community. Check out the Content Creation Playbook Mini Course and start building content with purpose: https://stan.store/RileyBlackStudios/p/rbs-content-playbook Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E262
June 8 · 1 hr 4 min
From Car Accident to Jamboree in 48 Hours
Send us Fan Mail Life hit HARD this week. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal finally sit down after a whirlwind couple of weeks involving a totaled car, injuries, family loss, traveling to Virginia for Jamboree, teaching content creation classes, and somehow still trying to keep business moving forward. This episode gets real. We talk about: • Crystal’s car accident and recovery • Navigating grief, stress, and entrepreneurship at the same time • The emotional side of running a business during hard seasons • Jamboree 2026 recap and teaching content creation workshops • Why the laser community feels like family • AP LazerCon prep and upcoming events We also talk maker events, laser business growth, content strategy, teaching creators, and the behind-the-scenes reality nobody talks about online. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E261
May 18 · 1 hr
Why Next Level Is No Longer Just a Laser Conference
Send us Fan Mail Next Level is back… but this year, it’s bigger than lasers. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Will and Mark to talk all things Next Level Maker Con 2026, the shift from Next Level Laser Conference to a broader maker-focused event, and why this year’s theme of “Refreshed” matters more than ever. We dive into: • Why the event changed from laser-focused to maker-focused • What “Refreshed” means for makers, creatives, and business owners • Why taking care of the maker matters just as much as growing the business • What to expect at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas • The value of smaller conversations, networking, and community • Why video access to classes is a huge win for attendees • The new Creator’s Corner and content creation spaces • Free professional headshots for all-access attendees • Breakout classes covering AI, pricing, marketing, Etsy, Shopify, garment decorating, UV printing, sandblasting, 3D printing, packaging, branding, and more • The charity partnership with Wipe Out Kids Cancer • Why Next Level feels more like a maker family reunion than just another conference Whether you’re a laser owner, UV printer, crafter, designer, content creator, or small business owner, this episode breaks down why Next Level Maker Con is becoming one of the must-attend events in the maker community. 📍 Next Level Maker Con 2026 https://nextlevelmakerevents.com August 27–29 Gaylord Texan Resort Grapevine, Texas 🎙️ The Riley Black Project — real conversations about creativity, business, community, and the makers building something meaningful. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E260
May 11 · 1 hr 6 min
How They Helped 100+ Makers Grow Online
Send us Fan Mail Running a business is hard enough… Now try doing it while your co-host is out of state, your kids are running wild, and you’re juggling multiple businesses at once 😅 In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John holds it down solo (barely 😂) before being joined by Srishti & Arpit from Esenay Digital — a global agency helping makers and small businesses scale online the right way. From Mexico City to Colorado to Florida, this episode is a true remote podcast experience packed with real talk, real struggles, and real solutions. We dive into: • The chaos of running a business while your partner is away • Why so many makers struggle with websites, marketing, and scaling • The truth about Etsy vs Shopify (and why you need BOTH) • Why relying on one platform can kill your business • The biggest mistakes new business owners make when starting out • How Esenay Digital has helped 100+ makers build and grow online • What most agencies get WRONG (and why trust is broken) • Why building a website does NOT automatically mean more sales • The importance of owning your audience and customer data • SEO vs AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and the future of AI search • How AI is changing the way customers find and buy products • Why ChatGPT and AI shopping will reshape eCommerce • The power of community, education, and transparency in business This episode is part behind-the-scenes chaos, part business masterclass, and part wake-up call for makers who want to grow. If you’re a maker, content creator, or small business owner, this conversation will change how you think about your online presence. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E259
May 4 · 1 hr 13 min
Inside UV Ink Fest: The Virtual Event Makers Need
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal record from two different states while juggling real life, real business, and everything in between. But this episode isn’t just a life update… We’re joined by Sumita & Anuj to break down UV Ink Fest, a brand-new virtual conference designed to bring real education to makers—without the need to travel. We dive into: • Why UV Ink Fest was created and who it’s for • The growing demand for UV printing education • Brand-neutral learning and why it matters in the maker space • The difference between entry-level vs production UV printers • How UV printing expands what you can offer your customers This episode is part real-life chaos, part business strategy, and part “this is what entrepreneurship actually looks like.” If you’re a maker, engraver, or small business owner, this one is packed with insights you can apply immediately. UV Ink Fest Details: www.uvinkfest.com • Free virtual event (with optional upgrade) • 20+ speakers across UV printing, business, and marketing • Designed for beginners, intermediate, and advanced makers • Covers everything from workflow → pricing → AI → Shopify Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E258
April 27 · 1 hr 1 min
He Lost 500K Followers… Then Built It Back Stronger
Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to scale a creative business… without burning out or losing everything? In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Chantz from Custom Grains to talk about the real side of growth — the wins, the stress, the risks, and the lessons that come with building multiple businesses at once. From losing a massive TikTok following overnight… to investing hundreds of thousands back into his business… to launching a brand new hat company… This episode is packed with raw, honest insight for anyone trying to level up. We dive into: • How Chantz lost over 500K followers overnight — and rebuilt anyway • Why relying on one platform can destroy your business • The reality of scaling a product-based business • Investing $500K+ into growth (and the risks behind it) • Building multiple brands at once (Custom Grains, Laser by the Creek, Brim Co) • The truth about revenue vs actual take-home profit • Why diversification is no longer optional • Creating your own products to control quality and margins • The stress of employees, overhead, and responsibility • How collaborations and partnerships can grow your reach • The mindset shift from creator to CEO Plus, we get into the behind-the-scenes of launching Brim Co, building a U.S.-based plywood operation, and what’s next for Chantz as he expands into a brand new shop. If you’re a maker, business owner, or content creator, this episode is a must-watch. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E257
April 20 · 44 min
Inside LazerCON 2026: AP Lazer’s Growing Community Event
Send us Fan Mail What happens when frustration turns into innovation… and that innovation turns into an entire company? P.S. We lost Power at the end In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Jenna from AP Lazer to break down how their machines were born out of a real problem engraving massive granite pieces that simply wouldn’t fit into traditional laser beds. That frustration led to something different… open architecture laser design. And now? They’re hosting LazerCON, a growing event built around community, connection, and hands-on learning. We dive into: • How AP Lazer started in the granite and memorial industry • Why traditional laser beds limit what you can create • The power of open-bottom laser design (and what it unlocks) • Engraving on massive objects like whiskey barrels, doors, and floors • Why larger-scale projects are an untapped opportunity • The real truth about “market saturation” in the laser space • How finding your niche changes everything • The difference between big expos vs smaller community-driven events • What makes LazerCON unique (and why people come back every year) • Inside the growing laser community and why collaboration wins Plus, we break down everything you need to know about LazerCON 2026—including speakers, classes, and why this might be one of the best events to actually connect and learn. If you’re a maker, engraver, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will completely change how you think about what’s possible with a laser. LazerCON Details: May 28–29 Round Rock, Texas (Kalahari Convention Center) Tickets available at AP Lazer’s website Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E256
April 13 · 1 hr 15 min
K&G Jamboree: The Maker Event Everyone’s Talking About
Send us Fan Mail What happens when two creators turn chaos into content… and accidentally build a movement? In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Kim & Garrett to talk about their journey building a brand through live content, community, and a little bit of “figure it out as we go” energy. From late-night prep sessions and sweaty live streams… to launching their Loot Box subscription and hosting their own maker conference (Jamboree) — this episode is packed with real moments, lessons, and laughs. We dive into: • The reality of going live (and what happens when things go wrong) • Why perfection is overrated and authenticity wins • How Test Cut Tuesday became a powerful content engine • The behind-the-scenes of launching their Loot Box subscription • Turning ideas into recurring revenue streams • The importance of community in growing your brand • What creators actually struggle with (and don’t talk about) • Building a hands-on event experience with their Jamboree conference • Why “just wing it” sometimes works better than overplanning Plus… we get into the funny moments, the real struggles, and the mindset it takes to keep showing up consistently. If you’re a maker, content creator, or small business owner, this episode is a blueprint for building something people actually want to be part of. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E255
April 6 · 1 hr 7 min
How She Built a Profitable Custom Sign Business
Send us Fan Mail What happens when you stop trying to be everything… and finally lean into what makes you different? In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Jordan from Oak & Embers to talk about her journey from sewing business → laser artist → full-time creator building a brand rooted in custom, one-of-a-kind work. This isn’t just a maker story… it’s a masterclass in finding your lane, trusting your creativity, and building a business that actually fits your life. We dive into: • How she went from Glowforge beginner to full-time laser business owner • Why she refused to become a “cookie cutter” maker • The power of niching down and owning your style • Turning markets into networking opportunities (not just sales) • How custom signage became her most profitable lane • The mindset shift that changed everything in her business • Why you DON’T need to say yes to every project • Pricing, perfectionism, and learning to let go • The reality of feast-or-famine entrepreneurship • How growth doesn’t always show up as money (at first) Plus… we get real about burnout, time freedom, and why working for yourself is both the dream AND the pressure cooker. If you’re a maker, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights that’ll hit you right between the eyes (in a good way). Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E254
March 30 · 51 min
5 Canceled Flights… Was It Even Worth It?
Send us Fan Mail Five canceled flights. Getting stranded in Baltimore. …And somehow, it was still worth it. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal break down their full experience traveling to and from the Michigan Maker Summit—including one of the most chaotic travel stories they’ve ever lived through. But this isn’t just a travel horror story… It’s about community, showing up, teaching, and why events like this matter more than ever. We dive into: • The Michigan Maker Summit experience from start to finish • Teaching content creation classes (and why the smallest class mattered most) • Why intentional content beats posting just to post • The power of in-person community and networking • Packaging, perceived value, and simple ways to increase product pricing • Behind-the-scenes of filming, teaching, and connecting at events • The unexpected reality of travel delays, cancellations, and problem-solving in real time • Getting stranded in Baltimore… and how the maker community showed up for us • Why sometimes the worst situations lead to the best connections This episode is part business lesson, part life update, and part “you won’t believe this actually happened” story. If you're a maker, creator, or small business owner, this one hits on everything from growth to grit. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack
S1 · E253
March 23 · 1 hr 12 min
From Universal Studios Pyrotechnics to APA President
Send us Fan Mail From pyrotechnics at Universal Studios to becoming President of the Awards & Personalization Association (APA) — Justin’s journey is one you don’t hear every day. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Justin Varn of Awards4U to talk about growing up in the awards industry, stepping into a family business, and eventually becoming APA President. But the story goes deeper than that. Justin shares the emotional moment when his father presented him with APA Speaker of the Year, making history as the first father and son to both serve as APA President. We also dive into: • What it’s really like taking over a family business • The pressure of being “the owner’s son” and earning respect • His background in live show design and pyrotechnics at Universal Studios Orlando • How entrepreneurship impacts family life • The power of betting on yourself • Balancing business, parenting, and leadership • ADHD, entrepreneurship, and learning differently • How AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming the awards industry • Why embracing AI now will give makers a massive advantage Whether you're in the laser engraving, awards, maker, or personalization industry, this conversation is packed with insights about leadership, technology, and the mindset required to build something meaningful. And yes… we also talk about kids helping with orders, the chaos of entrepreneurship, and how family businesses really work behind the scenes. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

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